Description: Recognizable black mask and ringed tailed
Diet: Omnivores
Habitat: Varies to wooded areas to urban areas, near water
Independence: Between 6 to 12 months
Lifespan: Up to 16 years
Common Issues
Raccoons in Trashcans
Place you your trashcan out for pickup the morning of. If you need to have it out the night before make sure the can is secure (twist-on lid or bungee cord). Between pick-ups secure can as mentioned above or place in a secure building like a garage or shed.
Raccoons in Chimneys
Chimneys are usually used for dens. The best recommendation is to leave them alone and they will leave in a few weeks. Close the flume to make sure they cannot enter the house. Once they leave install a mesh chimney cap to eliminate this happening again. If this is not possible, close the flume and put a blaring radio in the fireplace. Also put a bowl of ammonia on a footstool or stepladder close to the flume. Do this close to dusk due to mothers moving young once it is dark. If she is blocked from her young she could do damage to the house trying to reach them. This could take a couple of days for them to evacuate. Again, once they leave, install a mesh chimney cap. If a raccoon is trapped in the chimney and unable to get out place a think rope from the chimney to the side of the house. This will allow them to climb out.
Raccoons Eating Cat or Dog Food Outside
If you have to feed outdoor pets feed only during the day and remove uneaten food before dusk. Your pets will adjust to the new feeding schedule quickly.
Raccoons Eating Fish in Backyard Fish Pond
Raccoons will never give up a free meal. Have the water level at least 3-feet deep as raccoons only like shallow water. Place hiding spots (i.e. cinder blocks, ceramic or PVC pipes, etc.) for the fish to escape on the bottom on the pond.
Raccoons Raiding Birdfeeders
There are special feeders that will are made to deter nuisance wildlife. Do not place birdfeeders on trees, porches or places raccoons can easily climb to. Use birdfeeder poles and install at least 2.5-foot long plastic pipe open in the bottom and closed at the top.
Raccoons (Procyon lotor)